Combining Self Drive Safari With Hiking in Kenya

Combining Self Drive Safari With Hiking in Kenya (6 best hikes/Treks in Kenya)

For a truly unique experience, we suggest adding a few days of trekking to your self-drive Kenya safari. Many of Kenya’s hiking destinations see very few tourists, making them more tranquil and off-the-beaten-path.

Ready to put on your boots and head out on some of Africa’s most breathtaking hikes? Here is our ranking of the top hikes in Kenya.

6 best hikes/Treks in Kenya:

Kenya’s Mount | The technical one

Number one is adored by all: the largest, oldest, and highest. Despite frequently being overshadowed by its well-known neighbor Kilimanjaro, Mount Kenya stealthily asserts its own position as Africa’s second-highest mountain and the more difficult climb.

 

At 5,199 meters, Mount Kenya is more inexpensive, less congested, and, in many respects, a more genuine experience than climbing Kilimanjaro. One of Africa’s most breathtaking treks, it features alpine meadows, glaciers, and towering peaks.

On the southeast face, the most popular route to the summit is the Chogoria Route. For safety and enjoyment, it is crucial to hire a reliable local guide or trekking firm for the five to six day hikes. Conditions are bright and dry from July until early October, making this the ideal time of year to climb.

Lacking five days to spare? The 3,050-meter-high Met Station is a day climb that nonetheless gives you a taste of Mount Kenya. If you have the stamina, go an additional hour to the alpine zone, where tussock grass, gigantic lobelias, and senecio trees take over the landscape. The breathtaking views from this location make the effort worthwhile.

Hell’s Gate | Easy hiking paths, rock climbing, and abseiling

Hell’s Gate National Park is unlike any other location in Kenya. Outdoor enthusiasts will love its open vistas, red granite walls, and stunning cliffs.

All skill levels of climbers are drawn to the cliffs of the Rift Valley escarpment, with seasoned climbers finding Fischer’s Tower, a spectacular volcanic plug, to be the ultimate challenge. Are you not a climber? Alternatively, try abseiling! At the Elsa Park Gate, you may get the necessary equipment and certified guides for both activities.

 

One of Kenya’s most rewarding trekking destinations is the Ol Njorowa Gorge, which is located inside the park. There are hot springs, layered red rock formations formed by centuries of geothermal activity, and small gorges throughout the about 24-kilometer trek. There are lots of photo opportunities along the way, making it a lovely place for a day hike.

We include Hell’s Gate in our self-drive Kenya safari itinerary. Interested in learning more about the park? Visit our site to learn about the most stunning national parks in Kenya.

Mount Elgon | Muddy Routes

One of Kenya’s most overlooked climbing sites is Mount Elgon, an ancient, extinct volcano that spans the Kenya-Uganda border. Even if you’re not ready for a multi-day walk, there is enough to appreciate over the roughly four days it takes to climb to the summit.

Elgon’s lower slopes provide serene forest trails, waterfalls, and vistas of the neighboring valleys, making them ideal for day walks. In search of a challenge, daring rock climbers also flock to the cliffs of Sudek and Lower Elgon.

Come prepared for shifting weather and muddy routes, especially after rain, as Mount Elgon’s peak can get windy, damp, and cold despite being on the equator.

If you enjoy exploring lesser-known locations like this, you should follow our blog, Kenya Off the Beaten Track, where we highlight more undiscovered treasures and far-flung excursions throughout the nation.

Wild trekking in the Loroghi Hills

The Loroghi Hills are one of Kenya’s best-kept trekking secrets; they are untamed, isolated, and seldom explored. High mountain passes, serene forested valleys, and breathtaking vistas may be found in this area, which rises above the Rift Valley. Hikers who enjoy the outdoors and isolation will find paradise here.

Poror Peak, at 2,580 meters, is reached by trails winding up the Lesiolo Escarpment. But more than the landscape, the real delight of trekking here is the opportunity to interact with the Samburu people, who live in these hills. A local Samburu guide can help you gain a deeper understanding of the environment and its culture, transforming your journey from a walk to a meaningful experience.

About 350 kilometers north of Nairobi, the little hamlet of Maralal provides access to the Loroghi Hills. We do not permit self-drivers to use our rental cars to travel to Maralal or the Loroghi Hills due to the unpaved and isolated roads in this area. We will arrange for a local driver-guide to transport you safely if you would want to incorporate this adventure in your trip. Simply notify us beforehand, and we will assist you with the logistics.

5. Kakamega Forest: An ideal habitat for birds

The lush, verdant Kakamega Forest, tucked away in western Kenya, is a haven for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers. Once a part of the huge Congo Basin, it is the final remnant of Kenya’s old rainforest.

Because of the vast array of unusual plants, birds, and butterflies that call the forest home, every hike is an experience. You can choose from a number of clearly marked routes that range in length from quick hikes to half-day hikes. Although you are free to explore yourself, we strongly advise going with one of Kakamega Park’s local guides. They are fully aware of where to locate the uncommon birds and secret areas of the forest.

In general, hiking here is fun and easy, but be prepared for the rare tropical downpour. Simply put on a raincoat, take it slow, and listen to the sounds of the surrounding nature.

6. A day walk in Nairobi to Mount Longonot

Mount Longonot, one of Kenya’s most well-liked day treks, is only an hour’s drive from Nairobi. For good reason, too. The expansive views atop this dormant volcano, which rises high from the Rift Valley level, make every step worthwhile.

The well-marked 2,276-meter ascent trail takes roughly two hours to complete. Bring plenty of water and take your time because the hike is strenuous. After you get to the top, you can spend an additional two hours going around the crater rim, which offers you amazing 360-degree views of the plains below.

A short getaway from the city or a chance to stretch your legs after a few days of safaris may be found at Mount Longonot. Since it’s a popular weekend excursion for Nairobi residents, going during the week typically results in more tranquil routes and a more serene summit.
Are you all set to embark on your trekking adventure?

Combining a self drive safari with Hiking  may be seamlessly combined into one amazing adventure with Roadtrip Africa. We will take care of your 4×4 rental, route, and lodging, so you just need to put on your boots and enjoy the journey.